Searching for Your License Online
Visit the website for your state’s board of nursing. Each board of nursing in the U.S. maintains a public database of nurses and other health professionals. Search for your state board of nursing or for whatever board regulates health professionals in your area. You can look up your state board here: https://www.ncsbn.org/index.htm.
Click on the link for license verification. Every state has a free online database to look up nursing licenses. This database is usually called “License Verification” or “Look up a License.”
Enter your information as many search boxes as possible. As long as you enter your first and last name, you can find your license number. To narrow down the results, enter your county, zip code, address, last 4 digits of your social security number, or other details. It is okay to leave some boxes blank. You may be asked to state your credentials. In this area, choose “RN” or “Registered Nurse” from the list of choices. In the box labeled “Nursing License Number,” leave it blank. These databases allow you search without the license number, as long as you have the first and last name of the nurse.
Locate your licensing information from the list. You may receive several results based on your name or location. Identify yourself from the list by looking for the profile with the right name, location, credentials, and address. Click on the link to find your license number. Your license number will typically be next to the words “license number.” It is usually 6-8 digits long. If you cannot find your licensing information, contact your state board of nursing directly.
Checking a Paper Nursing License
Find your paper nursing license. The physical license issued by the state will contain your ID number. This license may be in the form of a large certificate or a smaller card that fits into your wallet.
Look for the 6-8 digit number. Where the number is located varies on the state. The number is typically under or next to the words “License,” “License No.” or “ID Number.” Some states, such as Florida and Massachusetts, will include the preface “RN” before the number.
Apply for a duplicate certificate if you lost or damaged your license. Find the form on your state board of nursing's website. It usually costs between $20-30 to replace a lost certificate. While some states have online applications, others require you to print the form and mail it in. This form will require your name, address, credentials, and the reason for your request. You may need to include a photocopy of your photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. It will take between 2-3 weeks to receive your new license. Once you have it, look up your number on the new license. If your state no longer issues paper licenses or wallet cards, you may not be able to replace it. Instead, look up your license online.
Protecting Your License Number
Write down your number somewhere safe. You may need your RN license number when applying for jobs, gaining new certification, or proving your credentials. To keep it close to you at all times, write it down separately and put it somewhere you won’t lose it. You can: Write in a word document and save it to your computer. Store the number on your phone using a notes app. Put it on a post-it note and stick it to your computer. Write it on a piece of paper and tuck it into your lanyard at work.
Memorize your license number. If you have to provide your license number often, it may be easier just to memorize it. An easy way to memorize the number is to break it down into 2 or 3 chunks. Memorize these chunks separately before putting them together.
Make a copy of your nursing license. Use a photocopier or scan it into your computer. If you lose your current license, this will help you keep your information handy while you wait for a replacement. In some states, like Texas and Georgia, you can view and print off a copy of your license from the online public database. You may not use or display this copy as proof of your licensing. This copy may only be used privately.
Comments
0 comment